Hormonal Balance in Plants During Colonization by Mycorrhizal Fungi

Abstract

The complex inter- and extracellular relationship between host roots and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi requires a continuous exchange of signals to ensure the proper development of mycorrhizas. Plant hormones are known to play roles in different developmental processes and may therefore also be involved in the regulation of this symbiosis. Little is known about the function of plant hormones during the colonization process, although there is evidence that they are involved in signalling events between AM fungi and host plants. The current knowledge on the involvement of plant hormones in the establishment and development of mycorrhizas is presented and summarized in a model.